What is Shockwave Therapy?

An extracorporeal shockwave is defined as a non-evasive, non-electrical high energy sound wave that passes through the body via a hand-held probe. The shock waves produce a rapid increase in blood circulation to the target area and will break down fibrous scar tissue which builds up over time, especially with chronic conditions.

The break-down of scar tissue is the key to why shock wave therapy is so effective. Unlike normal elasticated tissue, scar tissue is non-elastic and will prevent normal movement and function, thereby weakening the unaffected tissue surrounding it, often causing further damage and pain. By increasing circulation and breaking down scar tissue, shockwave therapy will stimulate cell regeneration and promote normal healing and rapid reduction of pain. The normal function can then be restored.

What does Shockwave Therapy treat?

Shockwave therapy can be effective on a wide range of soft tissue and bony conditions. Here are some examples of conditions where shockwave therapy has effectively treated and restored normal function:

How successful is Shockwave Therapy?

After only 3 or 4 treatments with shockwave therapy, over 80% of patients report a reduction of pain and regaining of normal function.

Research is steadily growing for this cutting-edge technology, and the latest reports are confirming shockwave therapy is an effective treatment of soft tissue injuries, pain and certain bony conditions like heel spurs.

When investing in advanced technology like shockwave therapy, it is important to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the equipment, as well as having the backing of evidenced-based research. Storz Medical, Switzerland, are well known for their high standards of medical equipment and are leaders in the field of shockwave therapy. Our decision to invest in the Storz Medical Masterpuls MP50 was, therefore, an easy one to make.

What can I expect during my consultation?

At your first visit, you will meet our experienced Specialist Physiotherapist, who will discuss your symptoms and condition, followed by treatment of the area of pain or injury.

Shockwave therapy will be fully explained and treatment will commence. Shockwave treatment typically lasts for 10-15 minutes. This is followed by relevant hands-on manual therapy, for example, myofascial release or dry needling.

Should your Physiotherapist feel shockwave is not appropriate for your condition, this will be explained and a normal consultation fee will be made.

There are no known side effects of shockwave therapy. Most patients experience a reduction in their pain. Occasionally, a mild diffuse pain can be experienced within a few hours of treatment and may last 24 hours.

Are there contraindications for Shockwave Therapy?

There are a few occasions when shockwave therapy should not be used:

● If pregnant or trying to conceive

● For application over open growth plates – not suitable for under 18 years.

● Over metal pins or plates

● Malignant tumors

● Nerve or circulation disorders

● Infections

● If the patient is taking anticoagulants

Costs for treatment

Shockwave therapy is available at our Edinburgh Physiotherapy clinics as well as our Peebles Physiotherapy clinic and is administered by our Consultant Physiotherapist, Phil Mack.

During your appointment, Phil will combine physiotherapy treatment and advice along with your shockwave therapy to ensure you get the best chance of a successful result.

Research and experience suggest that a minimum of three treatments is required, but this can be discussed with Phil Mack during your appointment.

The cost for 3 sessions is £255. Alternatively, you can book a single consultation and treatment for £85.